Police Commissioner leads crime crackdown in Randfontein, Mohlakeng
A weekend of intensified policing under Operation Shanela 2 saw more than 1 100 suspects arrested across Gauteng, with illegal firearms seized, unlicensed liquor traders shut down and hundreds of wanted suspects brought to book.
Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, the Gauteng provincial commissioner, led a high-impact Operation Shanela 2 across Randfontein and Mohlakeng this past weekend, resulting in multiple arrests, seizures and the closure of non-compliant liquor outlets.
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The operation, which focused on crime prevention and compliance enforcement, saw police officers conducting targeted inspections and searches at taverns, clubs and various liquor outlets in the area. These efforts aimed to curb illegal activities often linked to such establishments.
According to Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, two suspects were arrested for selling liquor without valid licences during the operation, while another individual was apprehended for possession of gold-bearing material.
Police also recovered two unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
Authorities further shut down two liquor outlets found to be operating in contravention of regulatory requirements, reinforcing the police’s stance on compliance and public safety.
Mthombeni said the searches also assist in curbing the trade of illicit goods at some of these establishments.
Some patrons at the establishments visited by authorities welcomed the increased police presence.
It’s good to see police presence in our neighbourhoods. The police should not only operate from police stations but should carry out regular patrols in the streets,” said Pinky Mabu from Mohlakeng.
In addition to the visible policing operations, detectives carried out coordinated arrests of wanted suspects across the province. A total of 786 individuals were apprehended, including 149 suspects linked to crimes against women and children.
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Overall, 1 134 suspects were arrested across Gauteng over the weekend, highlighting law enforcement’s efforts to clamp down on crime and restore order in communities.
Police have reaffirmed their commitment to sustained operations and community partnerships to ensure safer environments for all residents.
